How effective is it? 1 in 2000 vasectomy operations fail, so it is an operation that works very well. It is for people who are sure that they do not want more or any children.

How does it work? The tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm from the testicles to the penis and cut, sealed or tied by an operation.

What are the advantages? Does not interrupt sex, there is no need to think about contraception after the operation, it can be performed under a local anaesthetic.

What are the disadvantages? Contraception must be used until a semen test shows no sperm are left – this can take up to 8 weeks. Rarely men experience testicular pain but treatment for this is often not successful.

Other facts: Must have counselling before this procedure. You will require some time to recover after the procedure there may be some pain. You have to avoid strenuous activity for a while after.